What is Duavee (Conjugated Estrogens/Bazedoxifene) prescribed for?

This medication is a combination drug that contains both Conjugated Estrogens and Bazedoxifene. It is used by women with a uterus, and helps reduce symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness.  It also helps to prevent bone loss after menopause.

How does Duavee (Conjugated Estrogens/Bazedoxifene) work?

Female hormones, such as conjugated estrogens, help to decrease menopausal symptoms, which can be caused by the body making to little estrogen. Bazedoxifene is not a hormone; however it works by acting like an estrogen in some parts of the body. The Bazedoxifene in this medication acts to safeguard bone mass and helps to lessen the risk of cancer.

This medication comes in the singular strength of 0.45mg/20mg. Also keep in mind that this medication is known as Duavive on an international level. Remember your dose is based on your medical background and your overall response to the treatment. If your doctor or pharmacist has given you some information in the form of a pamphlet, take the time to read up on this drug, and if you have any questions or concerns regarding this medication, please consult your doctor.

Take this medication by mouth, with or without food. Or as directed to you, by your doctor. It is usually taken once daily. If you choose to take this medication with food, make sure to take it right after a meal to prevent any stomach upsets.  Swallow the pill whole. Do not chew or crush. By doing this, it will release all of the medication at once, which can then increase the risk of side effects.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and your response to the treatment.  Take this medication on a regular basis to gain the most benefit.  Do not increase your dose or take it more often then you should. Consult your doctor with any questions you may have.

Before taking this medication, inform your doctor if you are allergic to conjugated estrogens or bazedoxifene; or if you have any other allergies in general.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history. Especially if you have had any of the following; vaginal bleeding of unknown cause, diabetes, cancer (especially breast cancer, cancer of the uterus/ovaries), blood clots, blood clotting disorders (such as protein C or protein S deficiency), family medical history (especially of breast lumps, cancer, blood clots), family or personal history of a certain swelling disorder (angioedema), gallbladder disease, heart disease (such as irregular heartbeat, previous heart attack), high blood pressure, high cholesterol/triglyceride levels, kidney disease, liver disease, lupus, mental/mood disorders (such as dementia, depression), migraine headaches, underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), mineral imbalance (low or high level of calcium in the blood), obesity, a certain hormone problem (hypoparathyroidism), uterus problems (such as fibroids, endometriosis), asthma, seizures, stroke, a certain blood disorder (porphyria).

Do not smoke or use tobacco. Estrogens combined with smoking further increases your risk of stroke, blood clots, high blood pressure, and heart attack, especially in women older than 35.

Common side effects of this medication do include the following; Stomach upset, nausea/vomiting, bloating, breast tenderness, headache, or weight. It is best to speak with your doctor promptly if you are experiencing any of these side effects.

However there are some more serious side effects, and if you have been experiencing them you should speak with your doctor right away. They are as follows; lumps in the breast, mental/mood changes (such as depression, memory loss), persistent nausea/vomiting, severe stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, swelling hands/ankles/feet, increased thirst/urination, unusual vaginal bleeding (such as spotting, sudden heavy bleeding).

Also this medication may rarely cause some serious issues blood clots, such as; heart attacks, strokes, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism. Please seek medical attention right away if are experiencing any of these side effects; chest/jaw/left arm pain, confusion, coughing up blood, pain/swelling/warmth in the groin/calf, slurred speech, sudden dizziness/fainting, sudden/severe headache, sudden vision changes (such as partial/complete blindness), tingling/weakness/numbness in the arms/legs, trouble breathing, unusual sweating, weakness on one side of the body.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak your doctor before stop taking this medication.

What is the best dosage to take?

The diagnosis with your doctor will be able to determine the best dosage for your treatment. Work with your doctor closely for dosage and dosing schedules.

What happens if I miss a dose?

You should take the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping in dose.

What is the best way to store this medication?

This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.